High School Basketball: First place in District 9-4A on line as Terrebonne plays host to Assumption

Tuesday

Feb 6, 2001 at 12:01 AM

This week marks the final girls' regular season action.

But, the boys' contest between Terrebonne and No. 10 Assumption is the game most area basketball fans will have their eyes on.

Both teams are atop the District 9-4A standings with 5-1 marks.

The Tigers' lone loss in league play came to Assumption on Jan. 19. The 64-59 win by the Mustangs was in Napoleonville. Today's game will be played in Houma. Assumption lost to Ellender last Tuesday, while Terrebonne is on a four-game winning streak.

"This group of players really prepare for a game," said Terrebonne coach David Neal of his team. "It's that preparation that gives them confidence to go out, play and execute in the game."

Against the Mustangs on Jan. 19, the Tigers fell behind by 14 points in the second quarter, but rebounded to make it a closer game. Georgetown signee Darrel Owens and Sterling Robinson each scored 18 points against the Tigers in the previous meeting.

"You expect a lot from Robinson, Washington and (Brandon) Jacobs," Neal said. "You just have to do things to limit them the ball. They are some tough guys. Some of the plays they made (on Jan. 19) were impressive."

Assumption will not have home-court advantage, but will still have the height edge. Owens is listed at 6-foot-6, while Jacobs is 6-5.

"We have to use our size and get some inside baskets and rebound," said AHS coach Tony Clark. "We're going to have to play some good defense. They (the Tigers) have some good shooters, especially (Durrell) Murry (who scored 18 points vs. AHS) and (Cory) Naquin, so we're going to have to get out on them."

The tallest Terrebonne player is 6-2.

"Size-wise, we don't match up with anyone," Neal said. "Our game is based more on quickness. We have guys that pride themselves on defense. But, Owens is so tall, he can see over some double teams. It's like a tall quarterback in football that can see over the linemen."

The Ellender Lady Patriots, despite their dominating play, may have to wait until Friday against Morgan City to lock the District 9-4A title.

EHS, currently ranked No. 2 in the state, has won its eight district games by an average margin of 36 points. In the last meeting with the MCHS, the Lady Patriots posted a 62-42 victory in Morgan City. Friday's rematch will be in Houma.

Heading into today's action, Ellender has won 14 games. The Lady Tigers have won their last three games.

Never miss a story

Choose the plan that's right for you.
Digital access or digital and print delivery.